While many of us look at ingredients on food labels, few of us scrutinize ingredients in beauty products. But what you put on your body is just as important as what you put in your body.

Recent data shows that women use an average of 16 products on their face alone and 12 products on their body per day. That often amounts to over 250 chemicals per day! If there are more than 12,000 chemicals approved for use in these cosmetics and personal care products, how many of these are actually safe?

Rather than simply promoting a brand, the “natural, clean beauty” movement supports the use of familiar everyday ingredients in personal care products.

Since beauty starts from within, be sure to eat a variety of foods high in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.  To make up for any dietary shortages, consider some of these health and beauty supplements.

The next step is to carefully read labels on beauty care products. Use the following as a guide. 

Natural Beauty Secrets for Skin

Look for products that contain raw pineapple and kiwi. These have natural protease enzymes that help break down proteins to slough off dead skin and give you a vibrant, fresh look.

Papaya fruit contains enzymes to cleanse skin while hydrating and moisturizing. Rubbing the peel on your face removes dead cells and nourishes the underlying layers, combating the signs of aging. Applying the pulp under the eyes can help with dark under-eye circles.

Honey has antibacterial properties and antioxidants that open pores, cleanse the skin and moisturize for an amazing glow. Tip: try honey with lemon juice to fully cleanse and hydrate.

Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, alpha hydroxy acid and malic acid, which are good for cleansing, exfoliating and toning for a pure, balanced complexion.

Natural Beauty Secrets for Hair

Castor oil contains vitamins, antioxidants and ricinoleic acid, a fatty acid that helps with inflammation. Applying this to your scalp can help nourish hair follicles and increase circulation to the scalp, encouraging hair growth and overall health.

Coconut oil is rich in proteins, vitamin E and fatty acids that help protect strands from environmental damage and prevent breakage and split ends.

Goji Berry contains essential minerals, carotenoids, amino acids (building blocks of protein) and vitamins. Adding this extract to shampoos or conditioners restores nutrients, combats damage and deeply conditions.

Grapefruit is well-known for its many antioxidative benefits. Lesser known is its ability to strengthen hair follicles, boost circulation to the scalp and remove harmful chemicals, such as parabens, you might have obtained from other products.

Natural Beauty Secrets for a Brighter Smile

Baking soda naturally whitens and cleanses. Adding this to your brushing routine prevents bacteria and removes stains.

“Oil pulling” consists of rinsing the mouth with certain oils such as coconut, sunflower or sesame oil. Not only will this help remove bacteria and debris you may have missed brushing, but it will also help remove stains and whiten your teeth.

Natural Beauty Secrets for Strong, Healthy Nails

Flaxseed oil provides minerals, antioxidants and fatty acids to promote growth and strength.

Olive oil combined with lemon helps remove stains, and because lemons are loaded with vitamin C, this combination also protects nails.

Jojoba oil acts as a natural preservative and healing agent to strengthen nail beds and fully revitalize nails, providing strength and length.